Enfilade

From the Universalmuseum Joanneum:

The English Manner: Mezzotint Masterpieces
Die Schwarze Kunst: Meisterwerke der Schabkunst
Schloss Eggenberg, Graz, 24 April — 20 July 2014

Curated by Karin Leitner-Ruhe and Christine Rabensteiner

Richard Earlom (1743–1822), Floral Still Life, after Jan van Huysum, mezzotint, 56 x 42 cm (Graz: Alte Galerie)

Mezzotint is one of the most fascinating and elaborate printed graphic techniques in history. Invented in the 17th century by the German Ludwig von Siegen, it is—unlike etching and engraving—the first surface technology in intaglio printing. It was mainly used for the reproduction of paintings and is marked by a velvety and deep black base, in which the artist scrapes the bright lights.

In the Graphic Collection of the Alte Galerie, there are somewhat more than 350 objects to be found, both from English (including James McArdell, Valentine Green, Richard Earlom among others) and German artists circles (Johann Gottfried Haid, Rugendas, Johann Peter Pichler etc.). The Neue Galerie Graz also owns around 20 sheets from the 19th and 20th centuries. 60 works from this rich trove are presented as part of the temporary exhibition in the special exhibition rooms in Schloss Eggenberg, titled The English Manor.